Sol Hirsch graduated with his Master’s in Library Sciences from Florida State University and has been an integral part of the FSU community ever since. One of his contributions to Florida State is the Sol and Beverly Hirsch Endowment, established in memory of his parents who were both Nazi concentration camp survivors. The endowment provides scholarships for master’s and doctoral students pursuing degrees in library and information studies.

This Fall, there are two new recipients of the Sol and Beverly Hirsch scholarship: Aisha Johnson and Julia Skinner.

Johnson investigated diversity needs in the field of library and information science as a graduate student, which sparked her doctoral dissertation “Access Denied: The Negro Struggle for Library Equality.” Her work explores the contributions of the Jewish philanthropist Julius Rosenwald and his Foundation’s involvement in developing libraries in the South. “Through archival research, I’m dedicated to uncovering the library service history of those less represented,” she commented.

Skinner’s research revolves around the Harlem Public Library from 1920-1942. The library played an integral part of the Harlem Renaissance creative movement. Her research focuses on Ernestine Rose, who served as the head of the branch. Prior to her time in Harlem, Rose worked with other underserved populations, including Jewish immigrants. “My hope is that this research will lay the groundwork for additional theory work using historic materials,” said Skinner.

Both recipients will be honored at the CCI Scholarship and Awards Reception on October 2nd, 2014.